The worker whose hours of work are set by the employer is usually an employee. Requiring work to be performed at set hours indicates control by the employer over the worker and suggests an employer-employee relationship. This requirement prevents the worker from being master of his or her own time. If fixed hours are not practical due to the nature of the occupation, then a requirement that the worker work at certain times is an element of control. An employer may require an employee to work “on call” or during set hours and days. Employees are usually required to adhere to a work schedule established by the employer.

Example: Joe’s Pizza Shop hires John Smith to paint the interior of the business. John works out a time with the owner, Joe Roberts, for when he can paint. John is an independent contractor and is not Joe’s employee.

Generally, an independent contractor is in control of his or her own time and works the days and hours he or she chooses.

Social Security Handbook, Section 810 : Do you have set hours at work?